Charm City is more than just its famous harbor—it’s historic Baltimore neighborhoods with iconic row houses, revitalized areas with warehouse lofts, districts with charming brick roads, and plenty of other reasons that will make you want to move here. Not sure which Baltimore neighborhood you should call home? Here are our picks for the 7 best Baltimore neighborhoods.
- Federal Hill
- Fells Point/Harbor East
- Canton
- Brooklyn
- Hampden
- Charles Village
- Mt. Washington
- Mt. Vernon
1. Federal Hill
Young professionals, singles, and newlyweds make up this tightly-knit urban community. At the heart of this historic neighborhood in South Baltimore, is the newly overhauled Cross Street Market, with fresh meats, produce, and baked goods. Federal Hill is also within walking distance of the Inner Harbor and Downtown Baltimore. This makes it easy to catch an Orioles or Ravens game. No wonder we picked Federal Hill as one of the best Baltimore neighborhoods.
Currently, the average monthly rent for a one bedroom apartment in Federal Hill is $1,860. The average rental price for a three bedroom apartment is $2,800. Almost all apartments are pet friendly with a pet deposit fee for most dogs and cats. There are also short-term rentals available, almost all are fully furnished for a comfortable short stay.
Popular points of interest in Federal Hill
2. Fells Point/Harbor East
Fell Point/Harbor East is just a short walk from the centerpiece of downtown, the world-famous Inner Harbor. What better way to enjoy a day out on the harbor than by visiting Thames Street Oyster House, a mid-Atlantic seafood restaurant. Fells Point/Harbor East is also home to attractions like the USS Constellation, the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, and Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the National Anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Shopping, attractions, and food make this waterfront neighborhood one of the most attractive in the city. And when we say food, we’re talking about homemade cuisine like the ones you can find in neighboring Little Italy.
Currently, the average monthly rent for a one bedroom apartment in Fells Point is $1,760 and a three bedroom apartment is $3,009. Many apartments in this neighborhood are pet friendly with a pet deposit fee for most dogs and cats. Short-term rentals are available, and come furnished with most amenities.
Popular points of interest in Fells Point/ Harbor East
- Thames Street Oyster House– Traditional mid-Atlantic seafood
- The Point In Fells – Comfort food eats, in a casual environment
- Blue Moon Cafe – Breakfast food served in a bright, funky atmosphere
3. Canton
Once a ghost town after the industrial era, Canton has seen an unprecedented urban renewal in the past 15 years. Its luxury harborfront condos and brick and formstone row houses next to art studios, offices, restaurants, and stores attract more independent residents. Canton Square is the heart of the ‘hood–eclectic restaurants, bars, and shops that dot O’Donnell Street. Canton Waterfront Park, Greektown, Butcher’s Hill, and “HA!”, the Highlandtown Arts and Entertainment District also makes this one of the city’s top neighborhoods.
The average monthly rent for a one bedroom apartment in Canton is currently $1,895 and a three bedroom apartment will cost $2,750 monthly. There are pet-friendly apartments and few short-term rentals available.
Popular points of interest in Canton
- Bo Brooks Crabhouse & Tiki Bar – Mom-&-pop waterfront location with outdoor tiki bar and fresh seafood
- Looney’s Pub Canton – Irish-style bar & grill
- Claddagh Pub – Baltimore’s origins Irish soccer pub
4. Brooklyn
Not unlike the more popular Brooklyn, this Brooklyn offers an array of trendy restaurants, shops, art centers, and conveniences. This hip neighborhood features two massive public parks—Farring-Baybrook Recreation Center and Arundel Village Park—with athletic fields, murals, dance classes, and open space trails. The best part of this beautiful Baltimore neighborhood? The waterfront views.
The current average rent price for a one bedroom apartment in Brooklyn is $818 per month. A three bedroom apartment is $1,299. Most apartment buildings in this neighborhood are pet friendly with a pet deposit fee. There are short-term leases available in some areas.
Popular points of interest in Brooklyn
- Chesapeake Arts Center – A destination for cultural classes, art, and theater
- The Hanover – Amazing barbecue and vibes
- Diablo Doughnuts – Doughnuts described as “sinfully delicious”
5. Hampden
Blue-collar meets hipster in Hampden. It offers more brick row homes and a modicum of Victorian abodes. Hampden’s 36th Street, “The Avenue,” serves as the community’s center with odd shops and bars. There’s easy access to the Light Rail whenever you feel the need to transit up to downtown, too. Here’s some Baltimore trivia: John Waters’ shot his films, like “Cry-Baby” and “Hairspray,” in the area. Heads up–everyone calls each other “hon,” so much so that the ‘hood hosts an annual street fair called HONfest that celebrates the Baltimore lifestyle and stereotypes. Souvenirs can be found at Cafe Hon, a campy American diner with a gift shop.
Currently, the average median price for rent in Hampden is $1,885 for most one- and two-bedroom apartments. Some apartments are pet friendly with a pet deposit fee required for most dogs and cats.
Popular points of interest in Hampden
- Cafe Hon – Campy American diner with gift shop for all your “hon” souvenirs
- Rocket to Venus – Retro, sci fi restaurant that’s known for their wings
- The Food Market – Comfort food created by award-winning chef Chad Gauss
6. Charles Village
One of the more ethnically and racially diverse neighborhoods in Baltimore, Charles Village is a mix of students, families, recent graduates, blue-collar residents, hipster couples, immigrants, and retired folks. More Victorian row houses mixed in with high rises give this neighborhood a small college town feel since it is home to Johns Hopkins University.
The average monthly rent for a one bedroom apartment in Charles Village is $1,100 and a three bedroom apartment is $1,850. Pet friendly apartments require a pet deposit fee for most average-sized dogs and cats.
Popular points of interest in Charles Village
- The Charles Theatre – An arthouse multiplex and the oldest theater in Baltimore
- Taste This – A modern take on classic Southern cuisine
- The PaperMoon Diner – Funky diner serving breakfast, burgers, and vegetarian options
7. Mt. Washington
Suburban quiet meets urban vitality in the peaceful area known as Mt. Washington. Here, individuals, couples, families, and empty-nesters abide in small bungalow homes, large Victorian houses, and garden apartments. Residents of this Baltimore neighborhood are invested in the community and aren’t going anywhere any time soon. The hub of the ‘hood is the historic Mt. Washington Village, featuring boutiques, antique stores, cozy eateries, and salons. Nowadays, the Light Rail has replaced the streetcar this community was built around. It’s close to Cylburn Arboretum’s mansion and landscaped gardens as well as Mt. Washington Arboretum’s native flora. Plus, Lake Roland Park is a quick jaunt north.
Popular points of interest near Mt. Washington
- Mt. Washington Tavern – American fare with a Chesapeake Bay theme
- Ethel’s Creole Kitchen – The best creole cuisine featuring jambalaya and gumbo, with regional specials
- The Walters Art Museum– A museum campus with five historic buildings and 36,000 art objects
8. Mt. Vernon
In the 19th century, industrialists flocked to this higher-end neighborhood of pristine houses and mansions. It was once the original home of the Washington Monument. Now, home to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, this historic neighborhood is home to museums, theaters, fancy restaurants, and boutique hotels. Only minutes north from downtown, Mt. Vernon homes and apartment buildings are beautifully restored, ready for singles, couples, and single families.
Currently, the average monthly rent price for a one-bedroom apartment in Mt. Vernon is $1,416, $1,815 for a two-bedroom, and over $2,200 for a three-bedroom apartment.
Popular points of interest near Mt. Vernon
- Maryland Center for History and Culture – A museum that dives into the rich culture of the city and its place in history
- George Peabody Library – Six floors of over 300,000 books to choose from, located on Johns Hopkins campus
- Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute – Cultural museum of all things jazz and how the genre helped shape the city and the nation
Fun facts about Baltimore
- Baltimore is home to Edgar Allan Poe’s burial grounds.
- Second only to Ellis Island, the Port of Baltimore was the second-largest point of immigration in the U.S.
- The Baltimore brewing company, The National Bohemian, or “Natty Bo” as known to locals, invented the six-pack. The company was later purchased by Pabst Brewing Company.
Both historic and charming, Baltimore City is a wonderful place to live. Living in Baltimore means having access to some of the best destinations for eats, drinks, and entertainment that make up the Chesapeake Bay way of life.
Frequently asked questions about living in Baltimore
What should I know before moving to Baltimore?
Residents of Baltimore City have a strong sense of pride, so be careful not to “diss” the city. Also, public transportation is a work in progress, so you may be better off owning a car.
What are the benefits of living in Baltimore?
You’re centrally located on the East Coast, near several major American metro areas. Education is ranked highly and jobs are easy to find. And if you love seafood, this is your haven.
Is it expensive to live in Baltimore?
Baltimore, Maryland is 28% cheaper than the national average. And there are over 200 unique communities and suburbs to choose from.
Why are some rental prices higher than others in Baltimore?
Baltimore city has many famed but older row houses in its many historic neighborhoods. These are particularly harder to maintain for landlords, which is why they may cost more than newer apartments in other areas.
Is Baltimore a good city for singles?
The Baltimore area recently ranked 104 out of 182 major metro areas surveyed for best cities for singles to live… and mingle.
Will your next apartment be a historic building? The choice is yours in the Baltimore area!
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